HHS: 11.4 million signed up for coverage during open enrollment

About 11.4 million consumers selected or were re-enrolled in a health plan during 2015 open enrollment, according to preliminary data released today by the Department of Health and Human Services. The total includes 8.6 million who signed up in 37 states using the HealthCare.gov platform and 2.8 million who signed up through a state-based marketplace. The report includes enrollment data for 37 states using the HealthCare.gov platform and select metropolitan areas. Future reports will include information for other states and the number of consumers who paid their premiums, the agency said. The three-month open enrollment period concluded Feb. 15, but was extended through Feb. 22 for those who encountered longer than normal wait times at the Marketplace Call Center on Feb. 13-15 or a technical issue on HealthCare.gov. Many state-based marketplaces have also announced extensions.